How does Shakespeare explore the theme of loyalty?

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The theme of loyalty, and thereby disloyalty, has been presented by Shakespeare in various plays such as Anthony and Cleopatra, Hamlet, and Julius Caesar. In Othello, the presentation of loyalty is complex, as Shakespeare deals in the same play with other themes like authority and marriage. However, loyalty remains as one of his major focuses, since it can be seen as a part of many other themes. Furthermore, Shakespeare introduces this theme as an influence on most of his characters' actions and decisions. The portrayals of his characters allows him to reveal different aspects of loyalty; loyalty in relationships between masters and servants, loyalty amongst friends and finally, loyalty in the midst of family and therefore between genders. The first impression given on the characters' notion of loyalty is balanced by the events occurring in the play, as well as the views of the other characters. In addition to his revelation of the characters, Shakespeare shows their opinion on loyalty through their use of language.

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[...] The duty that binds a daughter to her father is in this play overturned by Desdemona's loyalty to the man she loves; Shakespeare has her acknowledge this choice as she declares in Act 1 scene do perceive here a divided duty: To you I am bound for life and education [ ] but here is my husband: [ ] and so much duty [ ] That I may profess Due to the Moor my lord.” These verses show the dilemma with which Desdemona is confronted; she finally remains loyal to her husband rather than to her father. This part of the play shows quite a fair portrait of the paternal authority and the matter of marriage at Shakespeare's time; the daughters had the duty to obey their fathers until he agreed to marry them. However, in Othello Desdemona decides to marry without the consent of her father thus not respecting the proprieties of the time. [...]

[...] In Othello, the presentation of loyalty is complex, as Shakespeare deals on the same play with other themes like authority or marriage. However, loyalty remains one of his major focuses, since it can be seen as part of any of the other themes. Furthermore, Shakespeare introduces this theme as an influence on most of his characters' actions and decisions. The portrayals of his characters allow him to reveal different aspects of loyalty: loyalty in relationships between masters and servants, loyalty amongst friends and finally, loyalty in the midst of family and therefore between genders. [...]

[...] Shakespeare has it contrast with Othello's trust of Iago, as he always calls him “Honest Iago” or “Good Iago”. The use of these attributes is a way to demonstrate the power of persuasion as well as Iago's aptitude to fool everybody concerning his steadiness and support; although the audience is aware of his plans to ruin Othello, Shakespeare shows the general as trusting Iago which creates a dramatic irony. As Iago pursue his search of revenge, he uses loyalty to achieve his plans: both on manipulating Othello to the belief that Desdemona is infatuated with Cassio, as well as persuading his master to trust him solely. [...]

[...] It could also be felt, as Shakespeare presents them both concerned about honour, that Desdemona's perseverance to help Cassio is loyalty to her promise rather than to their firendship. Furthermore, the firmness of their support to each other, can lead to the conclusion that there is more than friendship between them, as Iago manages to persuade Othello of Desdemona's adultery; once more Shakespeare has him use loyalty to reach his revenge; her steadiness in defending Michael Cassio is to be taken as a proof of unfaithfulness: “Note if your lady strain his entertainment With any strong or vehement importunity Much will be seen in that” The theme of loyalty between different genders is further explored by Shakespeare with the family relationships; it is first introduced with Desdemona marrying Othello against her father's will. [...]

[...] Shakespeare presents the loyalty binding masters and servants along with the theme of authority. Othello, one of the most powerful characters, is introduced as loyal to his country, supporting Venice and his Duke against its enemy, although he is an outsider and newly married to Desdemona as he states: heaven defends your good souls that you think I will your serious and great business scant When she is with me. [ If Othello is depicted as a loyal servant to the Duke, Shakespeare shows a different aspect of duty with the portrayal of Iago. [...]